This is very disappointing to hear. The ability to queue up a given slot directly via IR is all that I require per my Pronto TSU9600 and the DVD management activity that I use. I own 6 of the Sony DVP-CX985V 400-disc DVD changers and have been completely satisfied with direct slot access via IR. With a limited number of slots left in my last DVD changer I planned on officially starting my Blu-ray disc collection by years end with the purchase of the lower end Sony Blu-ray changer. Never even thought to question whether direct slot access via IR was still possible. While I'd rather not go to the added expense of integrating RS-232 capability into my setup and purchasing the higher end changer at least it's an option I guess. Tough pill to swallow though.